The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food and Nutrition Service has awarded a $494,000 grant to the Arizona Department of Education's (ADE) Health and Nutrition Division, according to an ADE press release.

The three-year Team Nutrition grant will help improve nutrition knowledge in elementary school students.

Arizona will use the funds to offer up to five subgrants to local education agencies such as school districts, according to the release. Those subgrants must hire wellness coordinators to promote appealing, nutritious school meals; offer nutrition education and information; and promote healthful-eating environments within their respective schools.

The local education agencies must document their ventures during the nutrition programs and mentor other school agencies to undertake similar efforts. ADE will help the subgrant recipients through technical assistance, support and training.